With Arsenal's midfield still suspect, the Gunners are expectedly being linked with a host of playmakers.
The likes of Marvin Martin, Younes Belhanda and Moussa Dembele have all been reportedly piquing the interest of Arsene Wenger. Another midfielder's name thrown up in the media in Spain -- and the one most likely to come to Arsenal -- is Ibrahim Afellay.
Afellay has had an injury-ravage career since making his move to Barcelona at the beginning of last year. However, after recovering from injury, the playmaker has made impressive strides, scoring two wonderful goals in his country Netherland's victory over Northern Ireland in a friendly.
Fans hoping to see him in an Arsenal shirt next season will have been especially happy to see his understanding with club captain Robin Van Persie, who set up Afellay for both his goals. The Dutch compatriots are also known to be good friends off the field and the Barca player is expected to cost only $9 million. So a move for Afellay could also help in persuading Van Persie to stay at the Emirates.
Martin has reportedly been interesting Lille, who are looking to replace Eden Hazard. Martin has previously stated his desire to move to England and play in the Premier League and Wenger is a known admirer of the midfielder's qualities.
Belhanda is also being tracked by Liverpool and Tottenham, but Arsenal have the upper-hand as they are the only club among the trio that can offer Champions League soccer next season.
Belhanda's club Montpellier, however, are determined to keep the midfielder at the club.
Inter Milan might rival Arsenal for Nigel De Jong after both clubs have been left frustrated with their pursuit of defensive midfielder Yann M'Vila.
Arsenal and Inter are also locked in a battle for FC Basel defender Aleksandar Dragovic with reports in Italy suggesting the Milan-based club are ready to put in a bid for the 21-year-old. Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund have also been linked with the young defender who will cost a reported $12.5 million.
Chelsea are targeting two Arsenal players in Theo Walcott and Bacary Sagna. According to reports in the British media, the European champions are keen o n Walcott, who has just a year remaining on his contract while the Blues see Sagna as a perfect replacement for Jose Bosingwa, who was released by the club.
A move for Sagna is unlikely as the rightback has previously stated his desire to stay at Arsenal and is recovering from a broken leg which saw his hopes of playing in Euro 2012 come to an end. Walcott will leave Arsenal, only if the club try to sell him, with Wenger saying he sees Walcott's future in North London.
Crewe youngster and Manchester United target, Nick Powell is on Arsenal's radar, according to the Mirror. United are considered favorites to sign Powell, but Wenger has been impressed by the youngster's form and might put in a bid to tempt the teenager to come to London.
